IT, Digital and Creative

This is an exciting course that will offer learners who wish to progress in IT, Media or administration an opportunity to develop essential study skills along with vocational units to create a firm foundation for successful progression to Level 1 qualifications. The Award in IT is ideal for learners who are not yet ready to commit to a larger qualification. As well as developing your knowledge and understanding of IT and Business in general, you will also have the opportunity to take part in work experience for a week .

Units covered will include:

Introduction to Study Skills,

Generating and Presenting a Business Idea,

Internet Skills,

Word Processing and Spreadsheet awareness.
You will have a personal progress tutor who will support you throughout the course.
All learners will also get a chance to improve their literacy and numeracy to level 1, with a programme of study that includes Functional skills English and Maths.

This course will help you engage with education and support your progression plans for next year into a full time L1 course within the college.

This course is for you if you have been out of education for some time and do not have the formal qualifications normally required for entry to further and higher education. If you are interested in studying computing and progressing onto University, the Access course will help you develop the knowledge and skills required to enter Higher Education.

All applications to Higher Education Courses must be made through UCAS, however please ring us for advice on this process and we will support you with your application.

This one year course is fast paced and requires self-motivation and determination in order to be successful. Learners will be required to complete units in the following modules:-

We have spent time speaking to employers and local businesses to understand local and wider needs, and this new course fulfils those requirements and more!

The course offers a stimulating and challenging programme of study that will be both engaging and memorable to students. It has been designed to be on the cusp of active developments in the industry, with students being involved at a wider level in seminars, summits and will be able to showcase their own research and development to their peers and professionals alike.

This course is designed for those who wish to pursue or advance their career in the media and games sector and provides a solid grounding for further study or training. There are several options open to learners on completion of this course, including a top-up degree, employment and traineeships.

Course Content:
The course is taught by specialist teachers who will give you experience of the games development sector using select Creative Media industry ideas and theories. You will study 8 Units a year, taught over two semesters, though several of your units may run over both semesters to enhance project based learning, akin to a studio based work environment.

First Year:
The first year has been planned to give students the skill to gain confidence and understand the creative media industry, including collaboration and current and emerging technology and trends. You will create several portfolio items as part of this year, which can be used to showcase your talents and skills.

Core Creative Media Units:

Unit 1 - Individual Project (Pearson-set)
Unit Code: Y/616/1709
Unit Information: The main purpose of this unit is to provide students with the opportunity to discover personal strengths and inform independent practice within the creative media production industry.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1. Explain the specialisms within creative media production, based on research into historic and contemporary precedents.
LO2. Develop individual creative solutions in response to a given brief.
LO3. Present a resolved proposition to an identified audience.
LO4. Evaluate a resolved proposition in response to audience feedback and personal reflection.

Unit 2 - Creative Media Industry
Unit Code: L/616/1710
Unit Information: In this unit, students will explore both the creative industries and the specific areas of creative media production. By developing a broad contextual understanding of the industry, business practices, and specific skills, students will be able to situate their own work and skills within the specific industries and the wider sector.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1. Discuss the relationship between creative media production and the creative industries, based on historic and contemporary precedents.
LO2. Explain the different forms of company and employment within the creative industries.
LO3. Evaluate the roles and relationships within a specific area of creative media production.
LO4. Analyse factors that may affect the future development of a specific area of creative media production.

Unit 3: Professional Practice
Unit Code: R/616/1711
Unit Information: The aim of this unit is to support students in developing their reflective practice and defining
areas for personal professional development; in the context of a growing awareness of the broad scope of creative media production. Students will define and implement personal professional development plans; through an investigation of the skills necessary to successfully pursue a career in the creative industries.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1 Explore the creative media production professions, through research into historic and contemporary precedent.
LO2 Discuss personal career goals in relation to the range of roles and subjects in the creative industries.
LO3 Define personal development plans, highlighting areas to support specific career goals and general skills.
LO4 Critically reflect on the achievement of personal development goals and plan for the future.

Unit 26: Film and Video Editing
Unit Code: T/616/1734
Unit Information: This unit gives students the opportunity to engage with the processes and practices of film and video editing. Students will learn how to create edits to set mood, communicate information, and create suspense, structure and meaning for their productions.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1. Explain the use of editing techniques for different production contexts.
LO2. Organise moving image and audio assets in support of a specific production context, based on a given brief.
LO3. Create an edited sequence, combining moving image and audio assets, in response to a given brief.
LO4. Evaluate an edited sequence through audience feedback and personal reflection.

Unit 27: Storyboarding
Unit Code: A/616/1735
Unit Information: In this unit, students will explore the different uses of storyboards across a range of media sectors and learn how to select the appropriate style and format of documentation to produce work. Students will develop and utilise design skills and create completed storyboards for use in a production context. Finally, they will also review and critically evaluate planning work to ensure that it is fit for purpose within a chosen context.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1 Explore the use of storyboards for creative media production.
LO2 Analyse a given brief, to define key features to be developed in a storyboard.
LO3 Create storyboards, using industry-standard tools and techniques, for a creative media production in response to a given brief.
LO4 Evaluate storyboards in their effectiveness in communicating the narrative of a creative media production.

Games Design Specialist Units:

Unit 21: Game Development Practices
Unit Code: K/616/1729
Unit Information: The aim of this unit is to introduce key underpinning game production practices, including consideration of the key theories used in the development of video games, and planning using industry-standards. Students will present game concepts and develop their ideas into prototypes. Topics included in this unit are: game developer roles, game definitions and genres, types of interaction, platforms, design theory, planning, project management, engine selection, production, prototyping and presentation. Being able to develop compelling game experiences based on industry practices is essential for entry into a rapidly growing sector of the media economy. Through this unit, students will begin to link the creative processes of game design with the practical skills required to translate these into working game prototypes. Through the acquisition and application of these skills, students will be able to continue with game development projects of increasing complexity and creativity.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1 Establish project aims, objectives and timeframes based on the chosen theme.
LO2 Produce a project development plan for a computer game, using industry standard processes and procedures.
LO3 Present an idea and development plan for a computer game, highlighting the development process and key milestones.
LO4 Develop a computer game prototype, using industry-standard tools and techniques.

Unit 22: Games in Context
Unit Code: D/616/1730
Unit Information: This unit explores the context of the video game development industry and its social, cultural, technological and economic components. The unit explores the evolution of video games and their relationship with the world in which we live. Students will consider the way that games drive innovation and influence many other areas of the creative economy.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to identify the current situation in the development of games, and analyse the factors that contribute to the evolution of the industry and define the aesthetic and technological characteristics of video games. In addition, students will be able to associate the skills necessary to work within the industry and their relationship to the theories and practices that underpin the development of the medium.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1 Discuss the development of the video game industry and the theories that underpin the medium, through historic and contemporary precedents.
LO2 Evaluate the relationship between social, cultural, technological and economic factors that influence the games development industry, their products and audiences.
LO3 Analyse a contemporary video game, highlighting the way technology, society and culture are reflected through the style, gameplay and promotion of the game.
LO4 Present a body of research that reflects the theories and practices of contemporary video games development, culture and context.

Unit 23: Game Design
Unit Code: H/616/1731
Unit Information: The aim of this unit is to introduce students to the concepts, tools and techniques used to generate and document game designs, through the opportunity to develop, assess and refine prototype gameplay elements, using industry-standard tools and techniques.

On completion of this unit, students will be able to design, prototype and test game design ideas using iterative development techniques to evaluate and refine gameplay mechanisms in support of achieving specified design goals and gameplay aesthetics.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1 Explore methods of idea-generation in support of game development.
LO2 Create a game design proposal, including graphic material and documentation, in response to a brief.
LO3 Develop a functional game prototype, through iterative testing and revision, using industry-standard tools and techniques.
LO4 Present a functional game prototype, highlighting gameplay mechanisms, testing and development process.

Second Year:
In the second year students will be given a more specialised view of their chosen direction in the computer game/creative media sector, which will include 2 mandatory units set by Pearson. These units are subject to change depending on the needs and requirements of the industry. Students will be given the opportunity to be involved in this process of development, which will also include input from our industry partners.

The course will also develop a broad range of transferable skills, which include communicating, teamwork, planning & organising, problem solving, IT skills and numerical techniques.

We are proud to introduce the new HND in Computing for 2019! This new and updated course brings many new changes and updates from the student voice, and from the many employers local to the college.

The course offers a stimulating and challenging programme of study that will be both engaging and memorable to students. The updated course offers a much more simplified structure which allows a grounding in the roots of the computing specialisation, with students having an option to choose one of the 6 specialist pathways in their second year.

This course is designed for those who wish to pursue or advance their career in computing sector and provides a solid grounding for further study or training. There are several options open to learners on completion of this course, including a top-up degree, employment and traineeships.

Course Content

The course is taught by specialist teachers who will give you experience of the computing sector using 8 Units a year, taught over two semesters.

First Year:
In the first year students target key aspects of the computing sector at Level 4 through six core units (these are mandatory), which include one unit assessed by a Pearson-set project. This will enable them to fully understand the industry and prepare them for making the transition to the second year.

The units are:
Unit 1 - Programming
Unit Code: D/615/1618
Unit Information: The aim of this unit is to provide students with to the core concepts of programming with an introduction to algorithms and the characteristics of programming paradigms.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1. Define basic algorithms to carry out an operation and outline the process of programming an application.
LO2. Explain the characteristics of procedural, object-oriented and event-driven programming, conduct an analysis of a suitable Integrated Development Environment (IDE).
LO3. Implement basic algorithms in code using an IDE.
LO4. Determine the debugging process and explain the importance of a coding standard.

Unit 2 - Networking
Unit Code: H/615/1619
Unit Information: The aim of this unit is to provide students with wider background knowledge of computer networking essentials, how they operate, protocols, standards, security considerations and the prototypes associated with a range of networking technologies.

Unit 3: Professional Practice
Unit Code: Y/615/1620
Unit Information: The aim of this unit is to develop skills in communication literacy, critical thinking, analysis, reasoning and interpretation, which are crucial for supporting the transition into employment and developing academic competence.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1. Demonstrate a range of interpersonal and transferable communication skills to a target audience.
LO2. Apply critical reasoning and thinking to a range of problem-solving scenarios.
LO3. Discuss the importance and dynamics of working within a team and the impact of team working in different environments.
LO4. Examine the need for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and its role within the workplace and for higher level learning.

Unit 4: Database Design & Development
Unit Code: H/615/1622
Unit Information: The aim of this unit is to give students opportunities to develop an understanding of the concepts and issues relating to database design and development, as well as to provide the practical skills to translate that understanding into the design and creation of complex databases.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1. Use an appropriate design tool to design a relational database system for a substantial problem.
LO2. Develop a fully functional relational database system, based on an existing system design.
LO3. Test the system against user and system requirements.
LO4. Produce technical and user documentation.

Unit 5: Security
Unit Code: K/615/1623
Unit Information: The aim of this unit is to provide students with knowledge of security, associated risks and how security breaches impact on business continuity. Students will examine security measures involving access authorisation, regulation of use implementing contingency plans and devising security policies and procedures.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1. Assess risks to IT security.
LO2. Describe IT security solutions.
LO3. Review mechanisms to control organisational IT security.
LO4. Manage organisational security.

Unit 6: Managing a Successful Computing Project (Pearson-set assignment)
Unit Code: T/615/1625
Unit Information: The aim of this unit is to engage students in decision-making, problem-solving and research activities using project management skills. They will have the fundamental knowledge and skills to enable them to investigate and examine relevant computing concepts within a work-related context, determine appropriate outcomes, decisions or solutions and present evidence to various stakeholders in an acceptable and understandable format.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1. Establish project aims, objectives and timeframes based on the chosen theme.
LO2. Conduct small-scale research, information gathering and data collection to generate knowledge to support the project.
LO3. Present the project and communicate appropriate recommendations based on meaningful conclusions drawn from the evidence findings and/or analysis.
LO4. Reflect on the value gained from conducting the project and its usefulness to support sustainable organisational performance

The first year of the course also includes two specialist industry units, which will be completed as part of your study. The importance of these units allows students to progress and specialise further in their second year.

Unit 9: Software Development Lifecycles
Unit Code: J/615/1631
Unit Information: The aim of this unit is to introduce students to the different decision making in software design and development, including project planning through an actual software development lifecycle.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1. Describe different software development lifecycles.
LO2. Explain the importance of a feasibility study.
LO3. Undertake a software development lifecycle.
LO4. Discuss the suitability of software behavioural design techniques.

Unit 10: Website Design & Development
Unit Code: T/508/0495
Unit Information: The aim of this unit is to understand the tools to develop websites, utilise website technologies, techniques with good design principles to create a multipage website and create and use a Test Plan to review the performance and design of a multipage website.

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:
LO1. Explain server technologies and management services associated with hosting and managing websites.
LO2. Categorise website technologies, tools and software used to develop websites.
LO3. Utilise website technologies, tools and techniques with good design principles to create a multipage website.
LO4. Create and use a Test Plan to review the performance and design of a multipage website.

Second Year:
In the second year students will be given a more specialised view of their chosen direction in the computing sector, which will include 2 mandatory units set by Pearson. These units are subject to change depending on the needs and requirements of the industry. Students will be given the opportunity to select a pathway, which will be specially developed alongside our industry partners.

The course will also develop a broad range of transferable skills, which include communicating, teamwork, planning & organising, problem solving, IT skills and numerical techniques.

This is a Level-2 IT qualification with a focus on Games and Animation. It is for you if you’re interested in a mixture of IT (gaming and animation) and creative subjects. The course will allow you to develop your skills in cutting edge digital work.

On the course, you will be introduced to a wide range of creative activities including software-based design, animation and programming.

You will work using state of the art industry standard software during your course.

What is the course structure?

The course is made up of individual units with focus on multiple aspects of games and animation. The mandatory units will enable you to study particular IT areas in depth, and specialist units will be aimed at delivering course specific knowledge and skills, with all internal assessments.

Your Study Programme will include the main course, a weekly tutorial, work experience placement, employability skills development and English and Maths as required.

This course is for you if you are planning a career in IT or Computing. As well as learning how to use a variety of software packages, English and Mathematics are included in the course timetable. Learners will also be taught important skills such as internet safety and setting up a PC. All students will have a personal progress tutor who will support them through the course.

Modules will include amongst others - Website development, Spreadsheet and database, Computer graphics as well as Project planning using IT.
Modules may vary at each campus. Employability units will be built into your programme of study.

All learners will also get a chance to improve their literacy and numeracy to level 2, either with a programme of study that includes GCSE English and Maths, or Functional skills English and Maths. You will also have the opportunity to take part in work experience for a week which will enable you to develop your employability skills further.

This course is for you if you are planning a career in IT or computing.

As well as introducing the world of IT, this course will also develop the learning skills you need to be successful at level 2 and beyond. You will learn important skills such as being organised and working with others as well as how to use a variety of software packages and will study Functional Skills English and Mathematics. All students will have a personal progress tutor who will support them throughout the course.

Modules will include:

Being Organised,

Developing a Personal Progression Plan,

Working with others,

Researching a Topic,

Using Digital Communication Technologies,

Solving Technical IT Problem,

Creating a Spreadsheet to Solve Problems,

Creating a Website,

Developing a Computer Program,

Creating a Digital Animated Graphic.

The study programme will include Functional Skills in English, Mathematics and study skills where you will have the opportunity to complete modules such as Word and Excel to gain the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) qualification.
You will also have the opportunity to take part in work experience for a week, which will enable you to develop your employability skills further.

This course is for you if you are planning a career in IT or Computing. It will develop your knowledge, skills and understanding of many different aspects of IT and computing including networking, application development and web design.

In addition to the core modules of Communication & Employability Skills , Computer Systems & Information Systems, other units studied will vary according to the pathway followed. The units on offer at each campus will vary.

Digital Creativity and Application Development pathways at the other campuses will include units on:

Web Design & Web Development,

Web Server scripting,

Client Side Customisation of Web Pages,

Digital Graphics & Web Animation,

Software Design & Development,

Developing Computer Games,

Object Oriented Programming and

Event Driven Programming.

All students will be placed on the Certificate in year 1. Upon successful completion of year 1, students can progress to year 2 to gain the Diploma or Extended Diploma.

The study programme will include an opportunity to study skills where you will complete modules such as Word and Excel to gain the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) qualification.
You will also have the opportunity to take part in work experience for a week, which will enable you to develop your employability skills further.

Organisations increasingly rely on computer systems in all areas of their operations and decision-making processes. Therefore, it is critical to ensure that IT systems run correctly and are regularly maintained. IT support, or technical support, is a service that provides this kind of support, as well as helping with specific problems with computer technology. IT support technicians may install and configure computer systems, diagnose hardware and software faults, and solve technical and applications problems, either over the phone or in person, and/or monitor and maintain the computer systems and networks of an organisation. Organisations need the IT support to ensure that their digital products, services and systems work effectively.

This qualification is for learners who want to start a career in IT support. This course is for you if you are looking to gain the skills and knowledge to undertake an IT support technician job role. It is an ideal qualification if you are intending to progress directly to employment in IT, or to an IT apprenticeship.

Learners will be required to complete all four units which will include:

Set Up and Configure Technology Systems;

Exploring Current and Emerging Technologies;

Security Protection and Risk Management;

Working as an IT Support Technician.

All learners will also get a chance to improve their literacy and numeracy to level 2, either with a programme of study that includes GCSE English and Maths, or Functional skills English and Maths. The study programme will include work experience for a week which will enable you to develop your employability skills further as well as study skills where you will complete modules such as Word and Excel to gain the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) qualification.

This two year course focuses on the development and use of virtual and augmented reality as well as emerging technologies for application across a range of sectors, including mobile technology, digital marketing and the visualisation of big data.

Learners will take eleven units over 2 years, made up of four mandatory;

Fundamentals of IT;

Global information;

Cyber security;

Virtual and augmented reality.

The first two units provide learners with an insight into the IT sector, as they investigate the pace of technological change, IT infrastructure, and the flow of information on a global scale, as well as the important legal and security considerations.
Cyber security reflects an important development in the sector around information security, and requires learners to consider how data should be protected and how the IT sector should respond to emerging threats such as cyber terrorism.
For Virtual and augmented reality, learners will research and design both a Virtual and Augmented Reality resource and suggest future applications for Virtual and Augmented Reality.

The study programme will include study skills where you will complete modules such as Word and Excel to gain the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) qualification. You will also have the opportunity to take part in work experience for a week, which will enable you to develop your employability skills further.

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